DIVA!
I am the daughter of a king, wife of the most incredible man, mother of an amazing boy born from my belly and mother of two beautiful girls and one handsom boy born in my heart. I am an African loving, adoption advocating, orphan loving, holy spirit filled, Irish football crazed, Jesus loving girl on a mission to provide a family that is a living example of what God's love looks like. Undefined by size, color or nationality bringing glory to him one adoption at a time.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Girls Night Out........
Oh and we measured Abigail today because she seems like she's getting so tall and she has grown over 2 inches since November 28th!! CRAZY!!! She's our little bean sprout!
Blessings!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Fundraiser t-shirts!
I meant to put these on my website a long time ago I just couldn't keep up!! As our fundraising comes to a close I wanted post that I have a few remaining t-shirts left!! They are long sleeve white t-shirts, pre-shrunk cotton with our adoption logo on them. The t-shirts sell for $15 plus $3 for shipping. See picture. All proceeds help bring Rebekah and Elijah home!!! The only sizes I have remaining are as follows:
1 - 2X
3 - Extra Large
1 - Large
1 - Medium
1 - Tote Bag
That's it!! We have been SO blessed. I will update the quantities as these sell, it's first come first email! Please email me at allaboutabigail2009@yahoo.com if you would like to purchase one and I will set it aside for you. You can either paypal or mail me a check. When you email me I will send the information.
That's it!! We have been SO blessed. I will update the quantities as these sell, it's first come first email! Please email me at allaboutabigail2009@yahoo.com if you would like to purchase one and I will set it aside for you. You can either paypal or mail me a check. When you email me I will send the information.
Thank you for ALL your support, I love walking around town and seeing our t-shirts on other people!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Sending our love to Rebekah and Elijah
We were so blessed to have the opportunity to send some things back for our beautiful children waiting for us in Uganda. Another Uganda mom, Mercy's mom, was back in the US for the holidays and I was able to ship her some items to take to the children from us. She arrived back in Uganda on Tuesday and although her luggage was a little delayed she arrived safe and sound. Soon the children will be able to receive the things we sent and we are SO excited.
We made photo albums for each child. We put lots of pictures of Mom, Dad, big brother Nolan and big sister Abigail so they can start to have actual faces to look at. Those were the hardest photo books I have ever made. I sobbed. The kids made the most beautiful pictures for them, each one wanted to draw a picture of our house and carefully placed each member of our family on the drawing.
We sent the softest blankets we could find and Rebekah got a doll and Elijah got some cars to play with. My kids hugged and kissed the blankets like crazy so they could feel the love all over them. I wiped tears of joy and sadness on them and I can only pray they feel a glimpse of how much we love them. When I sent the package I was so excited and happy they would get it and then I was so sad because I wish it was me there to deliver it. But soon, VERY SOON, we will be able to hold them at last.
I wonder each hour of the day how they are, what they're feeling, wanting to reassure them that everything will be OK. For now I have to rely on the Lord to bring peace to their hearts. I pray they are able to hug the blankets as much as we did and feel their family's love waiting for them to come home. Soon my babies you'll be here. :)
We made photo albums for each child. We put lots of pictures of Mom, Dad, big brother Nolan and big sister Abigail so they can start to have actual faces to look at. Those were the hardest photo books I have ever made. I sobbed. The kids made the most beautiful pictures for them, each one wanted to draw a picture of our house and carefully placed each member of our family on the drawing.
We sent the softest blankets we could find and Rebekah got a doll and Elijah got some cars to play with. My kids hugged and kissed the blankets like crazy so they could feel the love all over them. I wiped tears of joy and sadness on them and I can only pray they feel a glimpse of how much we love them. When I sent the package I was so excited and happy they would get it and then I was so sad because I wish it was me there to deliver it. But soon, VERY SOON, we will be able to hold them at last.
I wonder each hour of the day how they are, what they're feeling, wanting to reassure them that everything will be OK. For now I have to rely on the Lord to bring peace to their hearts. I pray they are able to hug the blankets as much as we did and feel their family's love waiting for them to come home. Soon my babies you'll be here. :)
Our care package for the kids!! Filled with lots of Love!
Workin hard on the coloring!
Proud artists :)
Pictures for the kids!
Giving Lots of hugs and kisses to the blankets!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Onward we charge
Here we go!!! Our last and final requirement for our home study will be met on Monday and the home study will be complete!! Then its time to send off our immigration application and beg for a speedy fingerprint appointment. :) We received our paperwork to send back to Uganda which will be going back next week and we will then be assigned a court date!!! YEAH!!!!!! SO CLOSE!
On the home front we have all moved into our new bedrooms. Jason and I are finishing up the addition of a bedroom and bathroom to our house and the kids have settled into their rooms. They were VERY excited. I was also excited to get the rooms ready for Rebekah and Elijah, their little beds are so adorable and innocent looking. I try to envision what they will look like sleeping in them and it's more then I can imagine.
It seems absolutely UNbelievable that we are this close again. My kids ask everyday when they are coming home. It was actually a little sad when our social worker came to our home to do the home study Abigail thought she was bringing the kids over. :( She was so disappointed but it's so sweet to see how excited they are. Ahhhhhhhh...........We are so blessed.
Have a great week with Jesus all!
On the home front we have all moved into our new bedrooms. Jason and I are finishing up the addition of a bedroom and bathroom to our house and the kids have settled into their rooms. They were VERY excited. I was also excited to get the rooms ready for Rebekah and Elijah, their little beds are so adorable and innocent looking. I try to envision what they will look like sleeping in them and it's more then I can imagine.
It seems absolutely UNbelievable that we are this close again. My kids ask everyday when they are coming home. It was actually a little sad when our social worker came to our home to do the home study Abigail thought she was bringing the kids over. :( She was so disappointed but it's so sweet to see how excited they are. Ahhhhhhhh...........We are so blessed.
Have a great week with Jesus all!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year to all!!!!
How blessed we were in 2010. Our trip to Uganda has changed everything for us in our family. Our adoption of Abigail has been nothing short of utter bliss and our spiritual journey as a family just gets stronger by the day. Sure, there's been heartaches and difficulties in the year, but it makes the joy so much sweeter in the end. I don't believe in filling out a New Years resolution list because the reality for me is that I only have today and if I can't change it today then it's not worth worrying about it in the first place.
This year will be remembered as the year of patience. How defined that word has become to us between the months of March and June of this year. We learned how important our closest friends are to us, who really cares about our family, and we learned more about ourselves then I think we care to admit. I've met a LIFETIME supply of people I now call family and who love my children as if we were related. So blessed.
I look forward to this year one day at a time. Everyday Abigail makes enormous strides and continues to grow in our family and our new life here. She is such a blessing. And with that I am so grateful for her endurance and strength. Nolan became an instant incredible big brother. He went from having everything to himself to sharing everything and he has done so with such grace. We are so proud of him.
Jason and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary with a little getaway for the night. It was the first night we've spent away from Abigail and she did great. And so did we. :) I love spending time "out" with just my best friend and although it doesn't happen too often with having 2 kids now I cherish the time it does. I am so blessed in my marriage that we make time every evening to spend with each other, these days we are working on the house together. We are content as can be and that makes everyday wonderful.
With the countdown beginning to my next departure we look forward to our journey back to Uganda. I have mixed emotions as I have to leave my 2 children here while I go and get my 2 children there. I've had to remember this year that God loves my children more then I ever could and I will continue to put my faith in Him that he will provide for all their needs. Although an exact date of travel is not known yet we know it will be in February. With that being only a month away I have started the process of getting everything together here so when I know I'm going, I'm ready. It's only 11 months from my first travel date last year to get Abigail. CRAZY!
It's a lot different going to Uganda this time. It's not as scary because I know what to expect. It's also WAY more scary, because I know what to expect. :) Because we had a delayed experience last time I'm going into this open minded enough to know that anything can happen. People keep asking how long we'll be gone but the answer at this point is however long it takes. I have not put a number of weeks in my head and for purposes of keeping my sanity I don't plan on it. This is the part where I have to remain obedient to my calling and put my trust in God for the details.
If you would like to be on my email adoption update list and you are not on there currently, please email me at allaboutabigail2009@yahoo.com. You don't need to write an email, just put "add me" if you would like to be added to our list.
I will not be posting anything on my blog while I am gone as it is risky to post case specific information. I will however be emailing regular updates and pictures of Rebekah and Elijah while we are in country. My blog will remain private while gone so there will be no access to it. Upon arrival home I will make the blog public again and post a last update. I have loved this blog dearly and loved how many people have continued to follow our journey, pray for us and befriend us from all over the world. After Rebekah and Elijah come home it will however be a time for us to be done with our blog. After 4 kids I'm not sure I'll have time to keep up with it and Jason and I feel it's time for our life to become private.
Friends, family, strangers, prayer warriors, if you'd like to follow along on our journey we would love to have you. I would love to add you to my adoption update list that has reached over 220 addresses now!
Many blessings to you in 2011.
In Him,
Heather
How blessed we were in 2010. Our trip to Uganda has changed everything for us in our family. Our adoption of Abigail has been nothing short of utter bliss and our spiritual journey as a family just gets stronger by the day. Sure, there's been heartaches and difficulties in the year, but it makes the joy so much sweeter in the end. I don't believe in filling out a New Years resolution list because the reality for me is that I only have today and if I can't change it today then it's not worth worrying about it in the first place.
This year will be remembered as the year of patience. How defined that word has become to us between the months of March and June of this year. We learned how important our closest friends are to us, who really cares about our family, and we learned more about ourselves then I think we care to admit. I've met a LIFETIME supply of people I now call family and who love my children as if we were related. So blessed.
I look forward to this year one day at a time. Everyday Abigail makes enormous strides and continues to grow in our family and our new life here. She is such a blessing. And with that I am so grateful for her endurance and strength. Nolan became an instant incredible big brother. He went from having everything to himself to sharing everything and he has done so with such grace. We are so proud of him.
Jason and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary with a little getaway for the night. It was the first night we've spent away from Abigail and she did great. And so did we. :) I love spending time "out" with just my best friend and although it doesn't happen too often with having 2 kids now I cherish the time it does. I am so blessed in my marriage that we make time every evening to spend with each other, these days we are working on the house together. We are content as can be and that makes everyday wonderful.
With the countdown beginning to my next departure we look forward to our journey back to Uganda. I have mixed emotions as I have to leave my 2 children here while I go and get my 2 children there. I've had to remember this year that God loves my children more then I ever could and I will continue to put my faith in Him that he will provide for all their needs. Although an exact date of travel is not known yet we know it will be in February. With that being only a month away I have started the process of getting everything together here so when I know I'm going, I'm ready. It's only 11 months from my first travel date last year to get Abigail. CRAZY!
It's a lot different going to Uganda this time. It's not as scary because I know what to expect. It's also WAY more scary, because I know what to expect. :) Because we had a delayed experience last time I'm going into this open minded enough to know that anything can happen. People keep asking how long we'll be gone but the answer at this point is however long it takes. I have not put a number of weeks in my head and for purposes of keeping my sanity I don't plan on it. This is the part where I have to remain obedient to my calling and put my trust in God for the details.
If you would like to be on my email adoption update list and you are not on there currently, please email me at allaboutabigail2009@yahoo.com. You don't need to write an email, just put "add me" if you would like to be added to our list.
I will not be posting anything on my blog while I am gone as it is risky to post case specific information. I will however be emailing regular updates and pictures of Rebekah and Elijah while we are in country. My blog will remain private while gone so there will be no access to it. Upon arrival home I will make the blog public again and post a last update. I have loved this blog dearly and loved how many people have continued to follow our journey, pray for us and befriend us from all over the world. After Rebekah and Elijah come home it will however be a time for us to be done with our blog. After 4 kids I'm not sure I'll have time to keep up with it and Jason and I feel it's time for our life to become private.
Friends, family, strangers, prayer warriors, if you'd like to follow along on our journey we would love to have you. I would love to add you to my adoption update list that has reached over 220 addresses now!
Many blessings to you in 2011.
In Him,
Heather
Monday, December 27, 2010
Abby's dress that she was SOO excited about!
Opening the first gift
Abby had the biggest one under the tree!
Nolan was all smiles while dad tried out the new flip video camera
Being silly!
Abigail's photo shoot from early December :)
This was as excited as the dogs got all night.
Merry 1st Christmas baby girl!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
“If this is going to be a Christian nation that doesn’t help the poor, either we have to pretend that Jesus is just as selfish as we are or we’ve got to acknowledge that he commanded us to love the poor and serve the needy without condition. And then admit that we just don’t want to do it.”
– Stephen Colbert
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Special Christmas wishes to everyone from the Osborns
Isaiah 9:6-7
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
No ordinary Christmas lights.............
Throughout this process of adopting there have been so many people who have blessed our family with a quiet service. We have had endless people help us out in so many ways and today I was unbelievably touched by another quiet service. One that I could have never imagined.
My neighbors have their house all lit up (see picture) like a gingerbread house. Each string of lights is even and carefully attached to their house, looks like a professional did it! We drive by their house everyday and each time my children marvel at the multi-color lights. Jason and I marvel at the amount of time it must have taken them to put up the lights and how nicely done they are. They haven't decorated the outside in a few years and we just attributed the absence of lights on their house to the "who has time?" I can hardly get the 4 strands on my evergreens in my front yard much less an entire home!
But this year was different, soon after Thanksgiving it was lit up, beaming like a festive gingerbread house, it's the only one on our street. It was the first house with lights Abigail had ever seen. To my surprise today when I spoke with our neighbor (the homeowner), she told me that they put the lights on the house because it was Abigail's first Christmas and they wanted it to be there for her to see. I was floored.
How incredibly nice it was that the neighbors thought of our daughter and her first Christmas and wanted to make it special for her. They took all that time just for her and we didn't even know. We've been driving by enjoying the view for 3 weeks but never knew it was for Abigail. After speaking with her I went back to my car I sobbed. Just sobbed. That is one of the nicest things someone has ever done for us, such a quiet service. Everytime I drove by and saw them I had no idea. So next time you see lights out on a house, maybe there is a story or a kind gesture behind it. Maybe its a reminder of what we can do special for other people. I am so humbled. Thank you Meyer family!! Truly a gift we will never forget.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
I SUPPORT ADOPTION BRACELETS!
Bracelets for Elijah and Rebekah! Our greatest hope is that we can spread the word of adoption! Each of these bracelets is made from %100 recycled silicone and sells for $2.00 each. No matter how many you order it is only 50 cents for shipping. One side of the bracelet says "I support adoption!" the other side says "Rebekah and Elijah 2010." They come in 2 colors, pink and blue. Our hope is that everyone will wear these bracelets until our Rebekah and Elijah come home to their forever family. All proceeds support our journey to get our beautiful kids!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
First Snow......
Ohhhhhhh how Abigail has waited so patiently to witness the first arrival of snow. This year the snow arrived later then usual so we had to be patient. However since it started falling last week it hasn't seemed to stop! We have had these awesome blankets of soft snow falling. She can't stop staring at it. The first day she literally went to the big window in our dining room at least 50 times. Each time say, "Mom it's snowing again." She said "It's on the roof too! And it's snowing far far away over there." She was truly amazed. Still I find her staring at it and checking first thing in the morning if it's there. Today while trying to put on her own mittens she complained it was hard to get her thumb in the whole. She's not used to the coat, boots, hat and mitten routine. When the kids got to play in the snow I had to peel them inside. It was an incredible "first" for her.
Looking out the window at the snow
Still dark out but Abigail and Nolan are getting the first peek of the snow!
And during breakfast!
Nolan outside shoveling
Looking again!
Abigail all bundled up in the car!
Running around the driveway in her church clothes! Just got out of the car at home and she took off in the snow!
LOTS of snow!
Jo from Australia in Uganda
OK this is going to seem like the most bizarre post. However we met this wonderful woman from Australia Jo at our guest house. She was working on a year long mission trip and we would love to talk to her!!! Jo, you have posted many comments on our blog, even asking us questions, however when you post a comment I am not able to reply because email it was sent from is kept private. PLEASE email Jason and I at allaboutabigail2009@yahoo.com we would love to talk to you!!!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Buy a t-shirt to help bring Mercy Home!
OK so I'm hoping with my number of followers I can help a friend of mine. Her name is Melissa and she's adopting a little girl named Mercy from Uganda. Although she has different issues with her case then we did she has been stuck in Uganda since the end of August. Almost 4 months! She has two sweet little girls and a husband waiting for her to bring their Mercy home. I know first hand how expensive it is to live on two continents as well as what this airfare will be for her to go home for Christmas. I know the financial and emotional toll can be devastating and we want to be able to help this family out! We are asking the Lord to seek favor on her family and allow her to bring her daughter Mercy home. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE read her blog at roadtomercy.blogspot.com
The t-shirt logo is from her website and I think they are just amazing. I love them and if you purchase one the proceeds go towards helping little Mercy come home. These would be excellent Christmas gifts!!
The Meaning: The arrows represent our need to focus inward on our own spiritual walk (white arrows), which will then, in turn, help us focus outward on our mission of serving others (black arrows). The words come from Micah 6:8, "And what does the Lord require of you? Act justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." And of course, the "Love Mercy" is in red to signify their sweet baby girl.
Shirts: $15 per shirt. 50/50 cotton blend unisex shirt. Sizes Youth XS (2-4)- Adult XXXL. Additional $3 per shirt requested for shipping.
To order: email Melissa at melissabusby@hotmail.com and put T-shirt order in the subject line. You can pay with PayPal or with a check. When you order, Melissa will send you details on how to pay.
In addition to the t-shirts I know I have an amazing list of prayer warriors. Please keep this family in your prayers, they are desperate to be united in the United States together. I'm personally asking for prayers for this family before you go to bed tonight, there is a very important meeting tomorrow for her. I'm praying that everyone will follow this family's journey, and rejoice with our fellow brother and sisters when that visa is finally released and they can go home.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
What's in a name......
After what seems to be an eternity to decide Jason and I have FINALLY chosen the names of our two little ones joining our family. We went back and forth as to whether we should change them at all but we felt as a family we wanted to do this for them. That and we aren't sure if they have even gone their whole life with the names they are being called now. We want them to have a fresh start.
We are still uncertain of their middle names, we would like to keep their African names as middle names as we did for Abigail. We will keep with tradition and our two new children will have two middle names like Nolan and Abigail do.
So here we go:
Rebekah will the our daughter's name. I love the biblical spelling of this name, although it's a little more common name it was a fitting biblical name for her. It's also the name of a very special Ugandan who's had such a huge impact on our children and we thought it was perfect to name her after her.
Elijah will be our son's name. Elijah was a prophet and when we saw the name we knew it was it, no hesitation, it was perfect for him.
So we will call them Rebekah and Elijah from here on, we are so excited to announce these names publicly and can't wait to bring our little ones home for good. Our goal for leaving is March 1, our attorney I think would like it to be sooner but we are still finishing up our home study and immigration approval and raising funds!! Selling beads like crazy to get there! If God can get our immigration approval back sooner then I will be there sooner to get them! The awesome thing is that I am leaving this in God's hands, he has always provided before and I know in his way he will provide again. As always, His timing will be perfect.
We are still uncertain of their middle names, we would like to keep their African names as middle names as we did for Abigail. We will keep with tradition and our two new children will have two middle names like Nolan and Abigail do.
So here we go:
Rebekah will the our daughter's name. I love the biblical spelling of this name, although it's a little more common name it was a fitting biblical name for her. It's also the name of a very special Ugandan who's had such a huge impact on our children and we thought it was perfect to name her after her.
Elijah will be our son's name. Elijah was a prophet and when we saw the name we knew it was it, no hesitation, it was perfect for him.
So we will call them Rebekah and Elijah from here on, we are so excited to announce these names publicly and can't wait to bring our little ones home for good. Our goal for leaving is March 1, our attorney I think would like it to be sooner but we are still finishing up our home study and immigration approval and raising funds!! Selling beads like crazy to get there! If God can get our immigration approval back sooner then I will be there sooner to get them! The awesome thing is that I am leaving this in God's hands, he has always provided before and I know in his way he will provide again. As always, His timing will be perfect.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving Blessings :)
Mmmmmmmm...........the smell of Thanksgiving food is still permiating my house!!! All I want to do is eat! I LOVE LOVE LOVE Thanksgiving. Good food and amazing friends we now call family, we are so blessed. We had 7 children here total to play! I have never in my life heard children laugh so hard. Abigail was the only girl in the group and she kept up with the best of the boys.
Amazing to think last year we were wondering what it would be like to have Abigail home. Trying to put in perspective her spot at the table and the sound of her voice. It's so fun to be able to experience all the first's with her. Despite all the things we could complain about not having we are so incredibly blessed. This past year has taught us exactly how MUCH we have and how LITTLE others do. Jason is amazing about always focusing on the positive and giving thanks for all we have today, he is such an incredible role model for our children.
Today was an amazing day for us from all the way across the globe. Our two future children today found out they would be adopted. They were moved into a permanent location with a permanent caregiver until we arrive. They received clothes, toiletries to bathe, shoes, beds with mattresses, blankets, sheets and most needed, food. They are receiving medical care this week because they have been without regular food for so long it's been difficult for them to eat. They have not been tested for anything as of yet but we are taking them as they are, nothing will change that. How AMAZING on this incredible holiday our children find out they have a forever home and a family yearning to hold them. We were told they were SOOOOOOO excited and that just makes my heart burst with happiness! We are suppose to be receiving pictures of their living arrangements and photos of the children this week, we can't wait! This just sealed the day for us today, but it isn't just today we will be giving thanks, it should be everyday. We're beaming proud parents!
So today on Abigail's first Thanksgiving we talked about giving our thanks to God for all that we have. Jason asked both of our children to list 5 things they were grateful for so here is our family list. Unedited just as it was, I posted the list below. Many blessings on this incredible holiday!
Abigail: I am thankful for:
1. Mom - because we snuggle and rock in the rocking chair
2. Dad - because you guys take care of me
3. My Brother - Because I love him
4. My Bed - Because I didn't have a nice bed before
5. My Clothes - Because they are nice
Nolan: I am thankful for:
1. God - because he gives me clothes
2. Friends - because I play with them
3. My sister - because I like when she gets to sleep in my bunkbed
4. Mom - Because I snuggle with her
5. Dad - Because we play football together
MANY MANY MANY BLESSINGS!
Amazing to think last year we were wondering what it would be like to have Abigail home. Trying to put in perspective her spot at the table and the sound of her voice. It's so fun to be able to experience all the first's with her. Despite all the things we could complain about not having we are so incredibly blessed. This past year has taught us exactly how MUCH we have and how LITTLE others do. Jason is amazing about always focusing on the positive and giving thanks for all we have today, he is such an incredible role model for our children.
Today was an amazing day for us from all the way across the globe. Our two future children today found out they would be adopted. They were moved into a permanent location with a permanent caregiver until we arrive. They received clothes, toiletries to bathe, shoes, beds with mattresses, blankets, sheets and most needed, food. They are receiving medical care this week because they have been without regular food for so long it's been difficult for them to eat. They have not been tested for anything as of yet but we are taking them as they are, nothing will change that. How AMAZING on this incredible holiday our children find out they have a forever home and a family yearning to hold them. We were told they were SOOOOOOO excited and that just makes my heart burst with happiness! We are suppose to be receiving pictures of their living arrangements and photos of the children this week, we can't wait! This just sealed the day for us today, but it isn't just today we will be giving thanks, it should be everyday. We're beaming proud parents!
So today on Abigail's first Thanksgiving we talked about giving our thanks to God for all that we have. Jason asked both of our children to list 5 things they were grateful for so here is our family list. Unedited just as it was, I posted the list below. Many blessings on this incredible holiday!
Abigail: I am thankful for:
1. Mom - because we snuggle and rock in the rocking chair
2. Dad - because you guys take care of me
3. My Brother - Because I love him
4. My Bed - Because I didn't have a nice bed before
5. My Clothes - Because they are nice
Nolan: I am thankful for:
1. God - because he gives me clothes
2. Friends - because I play with them
3. My sister - because I like when she gets to sleep in my bunkbed
4. Mom - Because I snuggle with her
5. Dad - Because we play football together
MANY MANY MANY BLESSINGS!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Blessed in Valparaiso, Indiana
Below is a newspaper article from the local paper in Valparaiso, Indiana on November 21st. The support we continue to receive from city to city or state to state is amazing. Our world is full of caring people who love children regardless of their skin color. I'm touched that our story touches other people's hearts. Check out the corner of the picture, it's our kids!
Jason
Jason
By Susan O'Leary Times Correspondent
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP | Christmas shoppers elbowed through jewelry, candles, and chip dip Saturday and discovered some unique offerings at the Holidaze Arts and Crafts Show at the Porter County Expo Center.
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP | Christmas shoppers elbowed through jewelry, candles, and chip dip Saturday and discovered some unique offerings at the Holidaze Arts and Crafts Show at the Porter County Expo Center.
At a booth called All About Abigail, Heather Osborn, of Mattawan, Mich., displayed multicolored bead necklaces and bracelets made from recycled magazines and fingerless mittens sewn from recycled wool sweaters.
Women in Ugandan refugee camps make the jewelry, while Osborn and her friend, Monica Lull, sew the mittens. Proceeds provide food and education to women in the camps and help fund adoptions of Ugandan orphans.
"They have nothing, but they are so rich because they are happy," said Osborn, who spent four months in Uganda when she and her husband adopted their daughter, Abigail, there last June.
Since both women learned to sew in October, they've made 400 mittens.
"They are great for texting and ice fishing," said Lull. "We have bus drivers and mail carriers who buy them."
Osborn and Lull met last March, but Lull plans to travel with Osborn on her next Ugandan trip.
"We believe God has blessed us completely and brought us together to do this," Lull said.
Shopper Karen Anton, of Crown Point, purchased two angels made in Uganda from banana leaves from Osborn.
"We were intrigued by the charity story behind this and the craftsmanship," Anton said.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
We're Expecting!
Jason and I are happy to announce that today we accepted the referral of two more children from Uganda. The little girl named Angel is 4 - exactly 7 months younger then Abigail and the little boy named Kenny is 2. They are siblings.
Jason and I came home from a weekend of fundraising and found out about the two children. Although I would like to keep their situation private because I will leave that up to them to tell some day, I can say the story is very horrible. I couldn't shake it from my heart and God kept laying it on us. There was a very urgent need to find these children a family and we accept it with honor. The children have been fending for themselves and living on the streets and as today they have been placed in a safe location and we will begin the process to bring them home to our family. Because my blog is public I am not able to post any pictures of the children but they are beautiful. They're eyes have a sad and lonely look in them like Abby's did in her first picture. Their clothing is worn, filthy and tattered and the little boy is not even wearing pants. Neither child has any shoes on. Yet somehow when we look at those children we see a beautiful daughter and son we cannot wait to love.
This adoption is NOT the ideal time for us but we know that HIS time is perfect and our strength will come from him.
When we were originally thinking 2 more kids we were thinking at least another year, however after praying on this for days we know in our hearts these are the children God has placed in our hearts for us. So I'm sending the application off tomorrow and we will begin to update our home study as soon as possible. I am hoping to travel in the spring or early summer to attend the court hearing and pick up the children.
My children are SOOOOOO excited. Abigail has been this giddy little girl all day announcing all the things she's going to be playing with her new brother and sister. And she's proud as a peacock that she will get to be a big sister. Because of when the girls are born they were be in different grades which is better for both girls. Nolan asked if we could go get them now and is beside himself at the idea of a brother.
I cried and cried this morning when we got the approval to go ahead from our social worker. We don't have all the details figured out but fortunately we don't have to, I'm placing that in God's hands. And with his strength we will grow to a family of 6 bringing glory to him throughout this entire process.
We are so blessed tonight. Looking at our dining room table it's hard to believe in no time all the chairs will be filled. We are asking for many prayers for our future children. We pray in advance for the Holy Spirit to work through all the people that have a hand in this. We pray for our own family for patience in this process to bring them home.
Welcome to the next Osborn journey!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Veteran's Day
Father in the name of Jesus,
I pray tonight for the men and women in uniform. Forgive me for taking for granted my freedoms while men and women are in harms way at this very moment protecting it. Forgive me for my selfish ways while the soldier's family spends the coming months alone waiting for their hero to come home. Lord I ask that you keep them safe from harm and bring them home. I pray for those who's spirit and body have been scarred from the battles I cannot comprehend find comfort with you. I pray for the men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty and for their families that have to endure a life without their loved one. And most of all Father I ask that the peace you give us sustain us.
Hear my prayer Lord.
Amen
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Quiet moments.......
I love the quiet moments during the day when I can just have a moment to myself. Some days I don't get them at all but some days like today I got to have a nice 10 minutes. It's in those times when I hear God speak to me. With the excitement of another adoption and two kids that have lots of energy I often forget to make time to just listen. Sometimes when I stop and listen I have this ability to not hear what the Lord is putting on my heart and in turn I am not able to be obedient. Today during my quiet moment I felt peace. Just peace. How exhilarating it was.
When I started my last job at Stryker, God laid on my heart it wasn't where I needed to be and I was angry. Angry because I worked so hard to get to that point and it wasn't in His will and I wanted it to be. When I left my job I was positive I would be beside myself with boredom and now I'm constantly reminded what I would be missing if I wasn't home. We have a BLAST. When He led us to adopt Abigail and I was afraid of not having enough of me to give to two children and not just one, He's shown me your heart just grows to fit all the love. When I moved into a smaller house then I imagined I was afraid I would feel crowded. My King taught me that a home is what fills it, my amazing husband who stands by me no matter what, my amazing children who are the apple of my eye and our house is busting with love. I wouldn't trade that for a bigger house in a million years.. I was afraid the older I got the less fun I would feel, I've never felt more secure and alive.
I used to live with the idea that the next vacation, the next new car, the bigger house, the nice new outfit, the new hair style, the bigger job etc. would bring happiness and don't get me wrong they did, but it's short lived. Today I'm wearing my "mom" pants, I haven't gotten a shower yet, I'm putting on make up and playing hair stylist with my daughter and there is nothing more I would want for my life then what I already have right now. I feel free.
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6:20
When I started my last job at Stryker, God laid on my heart it wasn't where I needed to be and I was angry. Angry because I worked so hard to get to that point and it wasn't in His will and I wanted it to be. When I left my job I was positive I would be beside myself with boredom and now I'm constantly reminded what I would be missing if I wasn't home. We have a BLAST. When He led us to adopt Abigail and I was afraid of not having enough of me to give to two children and not just one, He's shown me your heart just grows to fit all the love. When I moved into a smaller house then I imagined I was afraid I would feel crowded. My King taught me that a home is what fills it, my amazing husband who stands by me no matter what, my amazing children who are the apple of my eye and our house is busting with love. I wouldn't trade that for a bigger house in a million years.. I was afraid the older I got the less fun I would feel, I've never felt more secure and alive.
I used to live with the idea that the next vacation, the next new car, the bigger house, the nice new outfit, the new hair style, the bigger job etc. would bring happiness and don't get me wrong they did, but it's short lived. Today I'm wearing my "mom" pants, I haven't gotten a shower yet, I'm putting on make up and playing hair stylist with my daughter and there is nothing more I would want for my life then what I already have right now. I feel free.
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6:20
Friday, November 5, 2010
Prayers request
As we gear up for another weekend of bead shows I have a prayer request. I have a friend having a very difficult time with her son. He's left home and at 17 there isn't anything she can do about it. Please pray that the Holy Spirit move through him and pray that the evil stays out of his choices. I ask this in the name of Jesus, I know that I have an awesome following of people that have prayed for us and I'm asking that you help bring this family peace. If you pray for Heather and Jason's friends God will know who you are speaking about.
An update on our situation I believe the downstairs will be getting underway this week. We have to redo our electical, break up cement for the bathroom and knock out a wall!! YEAH! I'm so excited! The kids are excited to, I think they think the babies are coming right away if we do that. Haha. I keep saying in God's time.
An update on our situation I believe the downstairs will be getting underway this week. We have to redo our electical, break up cement for the bathroom and knock out a wall!! YEAH! I'm so excited! The kids are excited to, I think they think the babies are coming right away if we do that. Haha. I keep saying in God's time.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Happy Halloween!
Truly the BEST Halloween EVER. 3 days of celebrating and we are tuckered out! When you a adopt a child you have all sorts of "firsts" that are so darn fun. Sure when you have a baby you have a first Halloween but it's just so different. Being able to show Abigail all the fun and festivities was truly an unbelievably fun experience. Last night on the hay ride she looked at us like we were absolutely crazy, but she had a blast. She kept calling it a "hair ride" today. Hahaha. Even the dogs got into it this year. Friday we had a Halloween party, Saturday was trick or treating and Sunday was trunk or treat at church. My husband claims to have been dressed as Greg Brady and I think he was a little sad last night after he had to take the wig off for good, he literally wore it all weekend. (see pics) :) We had date night on Saturday and I think he was sad when I asked him not to wear it out. And yes I said date night! SO FUN!!!!! Then again I always had a crush on Greg Brady so he looked mighty good. Enjoy the pictures!!!
Logan dressed as a hot dog :) Poor girl
When you are a cute bubble bee it requires pretty nail polish
Pretty Miss Bee......
And Mr. Pirate. You know you are past
the cutesy fun childish costumes when your
son want to wear teeth like this!
All Smiles!
Don't you love the hunky Greg Brady standing in the back? WOO HOO!
Too cold for little miss Bee so she wanted to wear the warm giraffe outfit!
Here's me with my hubby Greg the hunk.
And the eyelashes? Almost killed me putting them on.
I have nothing to say except MMMMM HHHHMMMM......
Someday our children will be so embarrassed when their parents
dress up for Halloween so for now we have to go all out!
When it's cold out, real pirates wear sweatshirts :)
Trunk or treating at the church! SO fun!
My sweet little flower Lizzy :)
I asked the kids to paint faces on the pumpkins to carve out.
I drew Abigail what I thought was an example of a pumpkin face
so this is what she drew on the pumpkin. So cute. Ha ha
I asked Abigail to take a picture with her pumpkins and this how she posed. Haha
You can see she's saying cheese back there!
Much better Abby!
Nolan's cyclops pumpkin!
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